NASAL AIRWAY SURGERY

NASAL AIRWAY SURGERY

Nasal airway surgery is performed when the nasal cavity has damaged or diseased structures that need to be repaired. The nasal cavity is made up of bones, soft tissues, and cartilage. It is a passage beginning from the nostrils to the upper part of the throat. The nasal cavity has four essential functions:

  • Warming and humidifying of breathed air
  • Removing and trapping of pathogens and particulate matter from the breathed air
  • In control of the sense of smell
  • Clearing of paranasal sinuses and lacrimal ducts

Nasal airway surgery can restore a damaged nasal cavity to make it perform its essential functions.

TYPES

There are five types of nasal airway surgery procedures.

  • This procedure improves the nasal drainage into the throat. It is done by removing the bone located at the uppermost part of the nasal cavity called the ethmoid bone.
  • This procedure involves removing swellings called polyps in the nasal cavity that blocks airflow.
  • This procedure corrects deviations and deformities of the nasal septum (the one that divides the nasal cavity into the left and right sides) to improve breathing.
  • Tumor removal. This procedure is done when a tumor is present in the nasal cavity.
  • Turbinate surgery. This procedure involves reducing the nasal turbinates’ size, which is responsible for air conditioning and filtering in the nasal cavity. When they have an abnormal size, it can cause breathing difficulties.

SYMPTOMS

When the nasal cavity is damaged or diseased, it can cause airflow problems through the nose. It may also lead to:

  • Chronic mouth breathing
  • Chronic headaches
  • Sleep apnea
  • Nasal infections

Nasal airway surgery is not recommended at first. However, if other treatment options are not sufficient, they can be considered to have this procedure.

DIAGNOSIS

The doctor will examine medical history and medications. The patient will also undergo several tests, including x-rays, blood tests, and other tests, depending on the severity.

It is recommended to have other treatment options at first before considering surgery. Although nasal airway surgery is conventional, it comes with serious risks and may have other complications.

TREATMENT

There are two approaches when it comes to this procedure.

  • Endoscopic surgery. This involves the insertion of medical equipment and endoscope (a small instrument with a camera) through the nose. This approach requires less pain and risks since there will be no incisions. The doctor will perform the surgery while viewing the inside of the nose through the camera’s transmitted images.
  • Open surgery. Unlike the endoscopic surgery, this approach involves incision either inside or around the nose. This can be painful and may take longer to heal. This also comes with an increased risk of potential complications. However, for some conditions, this can be safer and more effective.

Potential complications of nasal airway surgery include:

  • Continued headaches
  • Eye damage
  • Skull damage that may result in meningitis
  • Loss of sense of taste or smell
  • Nerve damages
  • Pain
  • Recurrence of the removed obstruction
  • Permanent hole in the septum

There are ways to reduce these complications. This is through following the given treatment plans which can include:

  • Activity and lifestyle restrictions
  • Proper diet
  • Taking prescribed medications
  • Follow-ups with the doctor

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